Q: Will living in MA(legal state) affect my punishment when charged with possession of marijuana in a illegal state(NJ)
I was a passanger in a car which was pulled over for speeding in new jersey.. the officer smelled marijuana.. i had 1/8th of an ounce in my back pack and they also found a burnt peice of a joint.. I live in MA where it is legal.. what are the chances i would be given drug test/drug classes ect. And if they did give me drug testing as a punishment would i be able to get a medical marijuana card ? Another question is what would happen if i didnt show up to my court appearence.. i am technically homeless unemployed and indigent.. what would happen if i could not pay fines if given?
A: Marijuana may be legal in MA but not NJ and you face having a criminal record, possible jail especially if you have prior criminal charges or diversionary programs, and even if you are eligible for a diversionary program and the judge allows you in, you will have to remain drug free during your term of probation. If you fail to pay any fines assessed to you, you can work them off at the rate of $50.00 per day in jail, indigent people still unfortunately have to pay fines when and if convicted. I suggest you hire a good lawyer or apply for the public defender at your court date.
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